Relevance of flounder caging and proteomics to explore the impact of a major industrial accident caused by fire on the Seine estuarine water quality

On September 26th 2019, a major fire occurred in the Lubrizol factory located near the Seine estuary, in Rouen-France. Juvenile flounders were captured in the Canche estuary (a reference system) and caged one month in the Canche and in the Seine downstream the accident site. No significant increases of PAHs, PCBs and PFAS was detected in Seine vs Canche sediments after the accident, but a significant increase of dioxins and furans was observed in water and sewage sludge in the Rouen wastewater treatment plant. The proteomics approach highlighted a dysregulation of proteins associated with cholesterol synthesis and lipid metabolism, in fish caged in the Seine. The overall results suggested that the fire produced air borne dioxins and furans that got deposited on soil and subsequently entered in the Seine estuarine waters via runoff; thus contaminating fish preys and caged flounders in the Seine estuary.

Avoidance behaviour and toxicological impact of sunscreens in the teleost Chelon auratus

There is increasing evidence that sunscreen, more specifically the organic ultra-violet filters (O-UVFs), are toxic for aquatic organisms. In the present study, we simulated an environmental sunscreen exposure on the teleost fish, Chelon auratus. The first objective was to assess their spatial avoidance of environmental concentrations of sunscreen products (i.e. a few μg.L-1 of O-UVFs). Our results showed that the fish did not avoid the contaminated area. Therefore, the second objective was to evaluate the toxicological impacts of such pollutants after 35 days exposure to concentrations of a few μg.L-1 of O-UVFs. At the individual level, O-UVFs increased the hepatosomatic index which could suggest pathological alterations of the liver or the initiation of the detoxification processes. At the cellular level, a significant increase of malondialdehyde was measured in the muscle of fish exposed to O-UVFs which suggests a failure of antioxidant defences and/or an excess of reactive oxygen species.

Integration of environmental signatures and omics-based approaches on the European flounder to assist with health assessment of estuarine ecosystems in Brittany, France

This study aimed to develop a multidisciplinary approach to assess the ecological status of six moderate-sized French estuaries. For each estuary, we gathered geographical information, hydrobiological data, chemistry of pollutants and fish biology, including integration of proteomics and transcriptomics data. This integrative study covered the entire hydrological system studied, from the watershed to the estuary, and considered all the anthropogenic factors that can impact this environment. To reach this goal, European flounder (Platichthys flesus) were collected from six estuaries in September, which ensures a minimum residence time of five months within an estuary. Geographical metrics are used to characterize land use in each watershed. The concentrations of nitrite, nitrate, organic pollutants, and trace elements were measured in water, sediments and biota. All of these environmental parameters allowed to set up a typology of estuaries. Classical fish biomarkers, coupled with molecular data from transcriptomics and shotgun proteomics, highlighted the flounder's responses to stressors in its environment. We analysed the protein abundances and gene expression levels in the liver of fish from the different estuaries. We showed clear positive deregulation of proteins associated with xenobiotic detoxification in a system characterized by a large population density and industrial activity, as well as in a predominantly agricultural catchment area (mostly cultures of vegetables and pig breeding) mainly impacted by pesticides. Fish from the latter estuary also displayed strong deregulation of the urea cycle, most probably related to high nitrogen load. Proteomic and transcriptomic data also revealed a deregulation of proteins and genes related to the response to hypoxia, and a probable endocrine disruption in some estuaries. Coupling these data allowed the precise identification of the main stressors interacting within each hydrosystem.

Seasonal variations of low pesticides contamination and biomarker responses in marine bivalves from French estuaries

Biomarkers involved in detoxification process (GST), oxidative stress (SOD and MDA), immune response (Laccase) and neurotoxic disorders (AChE) were analysed in Pacific oysters and blue mussels collected from 4 locations within the Pertuis sea (France). Seasonal variations of total pesticide mean concentrations were found in seawater with metolachlor being the main pesticide measured (up to 32 ng/L). The majority of pesticide concentrations in sediment were below the LOD. Seasonal contamination differences were evidenced for chlortoluron, especially in mussels where concentrations reached 16 ng/g (wet weight) during the winter, in the Charente estuary, but no relationships with any of the biomarkers selected arisen. Actually, low concentrations of alpha-, beta-BHC and alachlor were correlated to GST activity, and low levels of hexachlorobenzene were linked to the AChE activity and MDA content in oysters. In mussels, low concentrations of methylparathion, parathion and beta-BHC were correlated to laccase.

Preliminary inter-port study of the quality of environments using physiological responses of invertebrates exposed to chronic trace element and organic contamination in Corsica (Mediterranean Sea)

Port areas are socio-ecosystems impacted by chronic mixture pollution. Some marine species benefit from living there and may be studied to define the ecological state of such environments. In this study, the risks of chronic chemical contamination and its consequences on three marine molluscs were evaluated in North Corsica (France) port areas. Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis, tubular sea cucumber Holothuria tubulosa and Mediterranean limpet Patella sp. were sampled in three port areas and a reference location. A set of biomarkers was analysed to evaluate oxidative stress, detoxification, energetic metabolism, neurotoxicity, immunity and bioaccumulation (metallic trace elements and organic pollutants). The objectives were to assess pollution-induced effects in organisms, to determine the best bioindicator species for the selected locations and to validate a "pool" sampling technique (when the analysis is done on a single pool of samples and not on individual samples). The results validate the sampling techniques as "pool" for management purposes. St-Florent was demonstrated as the most contaminated location. All the other locations present a low contamination, below the recommended threshold values (for metallic trace elements and organic pollutants). Finally, the limpet appears to be the best bioindicator for the selected locations. Mussel and sea cucumber are inappropriate due to their absence in this oligotrophic region and the lack of responses observed, respectively.

Fungal diversity and surfactant-producing fungi in oil contaminated environments

AIMS

To investigate fungal diversity and biosurfactant-producing fungi in four oil-contaminated sites.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Water and sediment samples were collected from four sites in Brittany (France), over two periods, in winter/spring and summer. Fungal diversity was investigated using a metagenetic approach targeting the ITS2 region. Surface-active compound production of 701 fungal isolates collected from these samples after direct plating or following enrichment was assessed using oil spreading and Parafilm M tests. Fungal communities were highly diverse and the main dominant fungal taxa were members of the Cladosporium, Penicillium, Pseudeurotium, Phoma, Aspergillus, and Trichoderma as well as Ochroconis, Fusicolla, and Aureobasidium genera in specific sites. A total of 179 isolates (25.5% of total isolates) were positive to at least one of the screening tests, while 105 were positive to both tests. Major genera among the positive isolates were Fusarium, Trichoderma, Candida, and Penicillium. Six isolates belonging to Aureobasidium pullulans, Mucor griseocyanus, Trichoderma citrinoviride, Trichoderma harzianum, Trichodermalongibrachiatum, and Diaporthe eres showed promising activities.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study highlighted the fungal diversity of oil-contaminated environments and the fact that surface-active compound production is widespread in fungi originating from these habitats.

Active and passive biomonitoring of trace elements, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and polychlorinated biphenyls in small Mediterranean harbours

Pollution particularly affects coastal ecosystems due to their proximity to anthropic sources. Among those environments, harbours are subjected to marine traffic but also to accidental and chronic pollution. These areas are thus exposed to complex mixtures of contaminants such as trace elements and organic contaminants which can impact marine species, habitats, and ecosystem services. The monitoring of these compounds is thus a crucial issue for assessment of environmental health. In this context, the aim of the present work was to evaluate the chemical contamination of harbours in Corsica (NW Mediterranean) by measuring the bioaccumulation of trace elements, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and polychlorinated biphenyls in mussels, limpets, and sea cucumbers. The human health risks associated with seafood consumption were also assessed. Results reveal a relatively low contamination in the Corsican harbours studied compared to larger Mediterranean ports and suggest that the potential health risk for consumers eating seafood is low.

Impacts of chemical stress, season, and climate change on the flounder population of the highly anthropised Seine estuary (France)

The main objective of this study was to improve our knowledge on the responses of fish populations to multistress (diffuse pollution and warming waters) in estuaries. Adult flounders were caught in two estuaries in the Eastern English Channel: the heavily polluted Seine estuary vs the moderately contaminated Canche estuary. Fish samplings were conducted in January just before the reproduction period, and in July when gonads were at rest. The overall rise in coastal winter water temperatures detected over the Channel impairs the flounder's phenology of reproduction in the two estuaries, inducing a delay of maturation process and probably also spawning. The higher liver histopathology index in Seine vs Canche could be the consequence of the fish exposition to a complex cocktail of contaminants in a strongly industrialized estuary. Higher levels of neurotoxicity, gill lipid peroxidation, and liver EROD activity were observed in Seine vs Canche. Furthermore, a possible impairment in mitochondrial metabolism was suggested in the Seine flounder population. We confirmed in this study the potential role of two membrane lipids (sphingomyelin and phosphatidylserine) in the resistance towards oxidative stress in Seine and Canche. Finally, we suggest that the Seine flounder population (and possibly the connected Eastern English Channel flounder populations over the French Coast) could be seriously impacted in the future by multistress: higher winter temperatures and chemical contamination.

Pesticides, nonylphenols and polybrominated diphenyl ethers in marine bivalves from France: A pilot study

The present pilot study aimed to provide an overview of organic contaminant concentration levels in the littoral ecosystems of the Pertuis seas. The study determined the concentrations of twenty-nine pesticides, six nonylphenols and seven polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in sediments, seawater, Pacific oysters and blue mussels. Oysters accumulated a higher number of pesticides than blue mussels. Indeed, alpha BHC (0.60-0.72 ng/g, ww), chlorfenvinphos (1.65-2.12 ng/g, ww), chlorpyrifos (0.79-0.93 ng/g, ww), chlortoluron (2.50-4.31 ng/g, ww), metolachlor (up to 0.38 ng/g, ww) and parathion (0.56-0.69 ng/g, ww) were quantified in oysters whereas only alpha BHC (0.24-0.31 ng/g, ww), was quantified in mussels. The present results also revealed that the POPs detected in water or sediments were not ultimately found accumulated in bivalves. Other molecules such as methylparathion and BDE47 were quantified in sediments. These molecules, BDE99 and one nonylphenol (OP2OE) were quantified in seawater. Finally, the comparison with the available environmental guidelines showed that the values measured were at concentrations not considered to cause adverse effects at the populations' level except for chlortoluron in seawater (15-50 ng/L).

Subchronic exposure to high-density polyethylene microplastics alone or in combination with chlortoluron significantly affected valve activity and daily growth of the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas

Nowadays, pesticides and microplastics (MPs) are commonly found in coastal waters worldwide. Due to their widespread use, their persistence and toxicity, they may induce adverse effects on physiology and behaviour of marine organisms such as the Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas). This study explored the growth and valve activity of juvenile oysters exposed for 24 days to two frequently detected pollutants in the Pertuis Charentais (South West, France): a herbicide (chlortoluron, 85 µg.L^-1) and high-density polyethylene microparticles (HDPE 20-25 µm, 112 MP.mL^-1) alone or in combination (cocktail condition; 97 µg.L^-1 of chlortoluron + 108 MP. mL^-1). The valve activity of juvenile oysters recorded by using a High Frequency and Non-Invasive valvometer (HFNI) was characterized by three parameters: the number of valve micro-closures (VMC), the Valve Opening Amplitude (VOA), and the Valve Opening Duration (VOD). Additionally, daily shell growth and the oyster daily rhythm were assessed. The exposure to MPs of oysters led to a significant increase of VMC and a decrease of VOD and shell growth. The exposure to chlortoluron showed a significant increase of VOA and a decrease of VMC. In combination with MPs, chlortoluron still increased VOA and decreased VMC but also reduced the shell growth. Chronobiological analysis did not reveal any effects on the daily rhythm of both contaminants. This work highlighted significant effects of high environmental concentrations of MPs and Chlortoluron on the behaviour and growth of the Pacific oyster.

Coastal ecosystem inventory with characterization and identification of plastic contamination and additives from aquaculture materials

In the early 1970s, studies of marine litter first appeared in the scientific literature. Fifty years later, knowledge of several coastal areas of the Atlantic, the driving forces of oyster farmers and aquaculture, is lacking. This work documents a pilot study on an Atlantic coastal area (France). This study aims to (i) characterize the abundance of macroplastics related to aquaculture tools; (ii) microplastics present in beach sediments and (iii) characterization of pollutants present on aquaculture plastics collected. First, it was observed that 70% of the plastics collected on the beach were characteristic of aquaculture materials. In sediments, MPs most found were Polyamide between 10 and 20 μm, with a total MP concentration of 397-457 MPs.kg^-1. Pipes collectors (PVC), frequently used in aquaculture, have been shown to have concentrations of dimethylphthalates and naphthalene. Waste management and support policies can then base their actions on such studies, in order to improve their knowledge.

Effects of dispersant treated oil upon exploratory behaviour in juvenile European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)

Accidental spills are pervasive pollution in aquatic ecosystems. Resorting to chemical dispersant is one of the most implemented strategies in response to oil spills, but it results in an increase in the bio-availability of oil compounds known to disturb fish neurosensory capacities and hence fish habitat use. While it has become well established that acute oil exposure can cause a range of physiological defects, sub-lethal consequences on animal behaviour have only received recent attention. Here we investigated the effect of an exposure to a 62 h- dispersant treated oil on the exploration tendency (exploratory activity, and avoidance of unfamiliar open areas) of juvenile European sea bass. Three different concentrations of chemically dispersed oil were tested, low and medium conditions bracketing the range of likely situations that fish encounter following an oil spill, the high dose representing a more severe condition. Fish recovery capacities were also evaluated during 2 weeks post-exposure. Our results suggest a dose-response relationship; the low dose (0.048 ± 0.007 g L^-1 of total petroleum hydrocarbons ([TPH])) had no effect on sea bass behavioural response to a novel environment while medium (0.243 ± 0.012 g L^-1 [TPH]) and high (0.902 ± 0.031 g L^-1 [TPH]) doses altered fish exploratory activity and their typical avoidance of unfamiliar open areas. Our experiment also suggest signs of recovery capacities in the first 10 days following oil exposure even if fish might need more time to fully recover from observed alterations. We discuss the possibility that observed alterations may result from a neurosensory or physiological known defects of oil exposure, causing anaesthetic-like sedative behaviours. Altogether, this study shows that juvenile sea bass exposed to oil spill exhibit transient behavioural impairments that may have major population-level consequences given the high mortality experienced by juveniles.

The effects of hypoxia on aerobic metabolism in oil-contaminated sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)

Hypoxia and petrogenic hydrocarbon contamination are two anthropogenic stressors that coexist in coastal environments. Although studies have estimated the impact of each stressor separately, few investigations have assessed the effects of these stressors in interaction. We therefore investigated the impact of these combined stressors on sea bass, (Dicentrarchus labrax) physiology. After experimental contamination with physically dispersed oil, fish were exposed to hypoxia or normoxia, and active/standard metabolic rates (AMR and SMR, respectively), and metabolic scope (MS) were estimated. At the protocol's end, the uptake of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was estimated by evaluating relative concentrations of bile metabolites. In terms of bile metabolites, our results validated the uptake of PAHs by contaminated fish in our experimental settings, and further suggest that the hypoxic period after contamination does not reduce or increase compound metabolization processes. Our data showed significant effects of hypoxia on all metabolic rates: a significant drastic AMR reduction and significant SMR diminution led to decreased MS. We also found that oil contamination significantly impacted AMR and MS, but not SMR. These results suggested that when evaluated separately, hypoxia or oil affect the metabolic rate of sea bass. On the other hand, when evaluated in combination, no cumulative effects were observed, since fish exposed to both stressors did not show a stronger impact on metabolism than fish exposed to hypoxia alone. This suggests that oil impacts fish metabolism when fish occupy normoxic waters, and that oil does not magnify hypoxia-induced effects on fish metabolism.

Combined effects of high hydrostatic pressure and dispersed oil on the metabolism and the mortality of turbot hepatocytes (Scophthalmus maximus)

Since the DeepWater Horizon oil spill and the use at 1450 m depth of dispersant as a technical response, the need of relevant ecotoxicological data on deep-sea ecosystems becomes crucial. In this context, this study focused on the effect of high hydrostatic pressure (10.1 MPa) on turbot hepatocytes isolated from fish exposed either to chemically dispersed oil, mechanically dispersed oil or dispersant alone. Potential combined effects of oil/dispersant and hydrostatic pressure, were assessed on cell mortality (total cell death, necrosis and apoptosis), cell viability and on hepatocyte oxygen consumption (MO₂). No change in cell mortality was observed in any of the experimental conditions, whereas, the results of cell viability showed a strong and significant increase in the two oil groups independently of the pressure exposure. Finally, oil exposure and hydrostatic pressure have additive effects on oxygen consumption at a cellular level. Presence of dispersant prevent any MO₂ increase in our experimental conditions. These mechanistic effects leading to this increased energetic demand and its eventual inhibition by dispersant must be investigated in further experiments.

Deep-sea versus shallow conditions: a comparative ecobarotoxicological study

In the context of new oil exploration/production areas, knowledge of the biological impact of dispersed oil in the deep-sea environment is essential. Hence, the aim of this study was to perform a comparison, at atmospheric pressure (0.1 MPa) and at a high hydrostatic pressure corresponding to 1000 m depth (10.1 MPa), of lethal concentrations (LC) on a model fish, Scophthalmus maximus, exposed to chemically dispersed oil. Fish were exposed concomitantly at 0.1 and 10.1 MPa using two exposure tanks connected to the same source tank thanks to a closed circuit. Acute toxicity was evaluated at 24 h through the determination of LC₁₀ and LC₅₀ (respectively, 10 and 50% of mortality) calculated from measured total petroleum hydrocarbon concentrations in the water. No statistical differences were observed between the LC₁₀ at 0.1 MPa (46.1 mg L^- 1) and the LC₁₀ at 10.1 MPa (31.0 mg L^- 1), whereas the LC₅₀ of fish exposed to 0.1 MPa (90.8 mg L^- 1) was significantly higher than the LC₅₀ at 10.1 MPa (50.9 mg L^- 1). These results clearly show an increase in oil toxicity under high hydrostatic pressure. This effect may be due to synergistic effects of pressure and oil contamination on fish energetic metabolism.

Effects of oil spill response technologies on marine microorganisms in the high Arctic

We studied how exposure to oil spill response technologies affect marine microorganisms during Arctic winter and spring. Microorganisms were exposed to chemically dispersed oil (DISP), in situ burnt oil (ISB), and natural attenuated oil (NATT) in mesocosms from February to May. We subsampled the mesocosms and studied the effects of oil in laboratory incubations as changes in biomass of the major functional groups: bacteria, heterotrophic-nanoflagellates, dinoflagellates, ciliates, pico- and nanophytoplankton, and diatoms over two 14-day periods. In winter, the majority of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) remained encapsulated in the ice, and the low concentrations of PAHs in water led to minute changes in biomass of the investigated groups. In spring, however, when the PAHs were partially released from the melting ice, the biomass of many functional groups in DISP and NATT decreased significantly, while the changes in ISB were less pronounced. The overall biomass reduction, as observed in this study, could lead to a disrupted transfer of energy from the primary producers to the higher trophic levels in oil affected areas.

Cellular, humoral and molecular responses in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) exposed to a herbicide and subsequently infected with infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus

Aquatic ecosystems are now chronically polluted by a cocktail of many chemical substances. There is now clear evidence of associations between exposure to pollutants and greater susceptibility to pathogens. The aim of the present study was to characterize the defense capacities of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), chronically exposed to pendimethalin (PD), to subsequent experimental challenge with the infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV). Immunological responses were examined at different organizational levels, from individuals to gene expression. No negative effects of PD were noted on the Fulton index nor on the liver or spleen somatic indices (LSI; SSI) before viral infection, but the infectious stress seems to generate a weak but significant decrease in Fulton and LSI values, which could be associated with consumption of energy reserves. During the viral challenges, the distribution of cumulative mortality was slightly different between infected groups. The impact of the virus on fish previously contaminated by PD started earlier and lasted longer than controls. The proportion of seropositive fish was lower in the fish group exposed to PD than in the control group, with similar quantities of anti-IHNV antibodies secreted in positive fish, regardless of the treatment. While no significant differences in C3-1 expression levels were detected throughout the experiment, TNF1&2, TLR3, Il-1β and IFN expression levels were increased in all infected fish, but the difference was more significant in fish groups previously exposed to herbicide. On the other hand, β-def expression was decreased in the pendimethalin-IHNV group compared to that in fish only infected by the virus (control-IHNV group).

The effect of hypoxia and hydrocarbons on the anti-predator performance of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)

Hydrocarbons contamination and hypoxia are two stressors that can coexist in coastal ecosystems. At present, few studies evaluated the combined impact of these stressors on fish physiology and behavior. Here, we tested the effect of the combination of hypoxia and petrogenic hydrocarbons on the anti-predator locomotor performance of fish. Specifically, two groups of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) were exposed to clean water (Ctrl) or oil-contaminated water (Oil). Subsequently, fish of both groups were placed in normoxic (norx) or hypoxic (hyp) experimental tanks (i.e. four groups of fish were formed: Ctrl norx, Ctrl hyp, Oil norx, Oil hyp). In these tanks, escape response was elicited by a mechano-acoustic stimulus and recorded with a high speed camera. Several variables were analyzed: escape response duration, responsiveness (percentage of fish responding to the stimulation), latency (time taken by the fish to initiate a response), directionality (defined as away or toward the stimulus), distance-time variables (such as speed and acceleration), maneuverability variables (such as turning rate), escape trajectory (angle of flight) and distancing of the fish from the stimulus. Results revealed (i) effects of stressors (Ctrl hyp, Oil norx and Oil hyp) on the directionality; (ii) effects of Oil norx and Oil hyp on maneuverability and (iii) effects of Oil hyp on distancing. These results suggest that individual stressors could alter the escape response of fish and that their combination could strengthen these effects. Such an impact could decrease the probability of prey escape success. By investigating the effects of hydrocarbons (and the interaction with hypoxia) on the anti-predator behavior of fish, this work increases our understanding of the biological impact of oil spill. Additionally, the results of this study are of interest for oil spill impact evaluation and also for developing new ecotoxicological tools of ecological significance.

Metal subcellular partitioning determines excretion pathways and sensitivity to cadmium toxicity in two marine fish species

Subcellular cadmium (Cd) partitioning was investigated in the liver of two marine fish species, the European sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax and the Senegalese sole Solea senegalensis, dietary exposed to an environmentally realistic Cd dose for two months followed by a two-month depuration. The two species displayed different handling strategies during the depuration period. Cd was largely bound to detoxifying fractions such as heat stable proteins (HSP) including metallothioneins (MT) in sea bass, while Cd was more linked to sensitive fractions such as organelles in sole. Whole liver concentrations and subcellular partitioning were also determined for essential elements. The greatest impairment of essential metal homeostasis due to Cd exposure was found in sole. These elements followed the Cd partitioning pattern, suggesting that they are involved in antioxidant responses against Cd toxicity. Cd consumption diminished sole growth in terms of body weight, probably due to lipid storage impairment. The contrasting partitioning patterns showed by the two species might imply different pathways for Cd elimination from the liver. In sea bass, MT-bound Cd would be excreted through bile or released into blood, crossing the cell membrane via a protein transporter. In sole, MRG-bound Cd would be sequestered by organelles before being released into the blood via vesicular exocytosis. These distinct strategies in cellular Cd handling in the liver might account for differential sensitivity to Cd toxicity and differential Cd excretion pathways between the two marine fish species.

Assessing the long-term effect of exposure to dispersant-treated oil on fish health using hypoxia tolerance and temperature susceptibility as ecologically relevant biomarkers

The ecological and economic importance of fish act as a brake on the development of chemical dispersants as operational instruments following oil spills. Although a valuable and consistent body of knowledge exists, its use in spill response is limited. The objective of the present study was to increase current knowledge base to facilitate the translation of published data into information of operational value. Thus we investigated the dose-response relationship between dispersant-treated oil exposure and ecologically relevant consequences by combining laboratory and field experiments. Effects were examined over almost a year using juveniles of the slowly growing, commercially important European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). A reliable interpretation of biomarker responses requires a complete knowledge of the factors likely to affect them. Interpopulational variability is of particular importance in environmental impact assessment because biomarker responses from a population collected in an impacted area are classically compared with those collected in a clean site. Our study revealed no effect of the exposure to dispersant-treated oil on fish hypoxia tolerance and temperature susceptibility at 1 and 11 mo post exposure. Similarly, no effect of the exposure was observed on the ability of the fish to cope with environmental contingencies in the field, regardless of the dose tested. Thus we feel confident to suggest that a 48-h exposure to chemically treated oil does not affect the ability of sea bass to cope with mild environmental contingencies. Finally, investigation of interpopulation variability revealed large differences in both hypoxia tolerance and temperature susceptibility among the 2 populations tested, suggesting that this variability may blur the interpretation of population comparisons as classically practiced in impact assessment. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:210-221. © 2018 SETAC.

Food deprivation reduces social interest in the European sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax

Periods of food deprivation up to several months are common features for fishes and in such conditions, fitness will be determined by their capacity to maximize food encounter while minimizing predation risk. In this context, the propensity to take risk and the willingness to associate with conspecifics are particularly important as they contribute to alleviating the trade-off between predation avoidance and foraging efficiency. This study examined to what extent food deprivation modulates fish risk-taking and social behaviours, as well as the relationship between them. To address these issues juvenile European sea bass were either fed daily with a maintenance ration or food-deprived during 3 weeks. Risk-taking and sociability were assessed through measurements of fish willingness to explore a novel environment, to interact with a novel object or a conspecific. Multivariate analysis allowed the identification of three behaviours, risk-taking, exploratory activity and solitariness. Food-deprived fish interacted less with conspecifics than control fish. After food-deprivation, no difference in terms of risk-taking and exploratory patterns was observed. Finally, the relationship between risky-taking and solitariness was influenced by the feeding status. When food-deprived fish with higher propensity to take risk displayed increased solitariness while, when fed normally they interacted more with conspecifics.

What is the relationship between the bioaccumulation of chemical contaminants in the variegated scallop Mimachlamys varia and its health status? A study carried out on the French Atlantic coast using the Path ComDim model

Increasing activity along the French Atlantic coast has led to chronic pollution with, in particular, mixtures of contaminants such as hydrocarbons, phytosanitary products, PCBs and heavy metals. Based on previous research, pollution biomarkers were used in this study as they can indicate health status when monitoring the impact of pollutants on coastal species such as the marine bivalve Mimachlamys varia. Mollusc bivalves were sampled in March 2016, in open and semi-open areas (a harbour zone), from thirteen sites which differed in terms of their level of pollution, and were located along the Atlantic coast from Brittany down to the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. First, analyses of heavy metals and organic contaminants (e.g. pesticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorobiphenyl) in the digestive gland of bivalves were performed. Second, biochemical assays were used to study defence biomarkers: oxidative stress with Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), detoxification of organic compounds with Glutathione-S Transferase (GST), lipid peroxidation with Malondialdehyde (MDA), and immune processes with Laccase. In addition to the biochemical assays, a genetic approach was used to measure genetic diversity (haplotype and nucleotide diversity) at each site. Biomarker assays and genetic diversity were correlated with the chemical contaminants in bivalves using the Path-ComDim statistical model. Our results showed specific correlations between biochemical assays in the digestive glands with heavy metal contaminants, and between genetic diversity and organic pollution. Blocks of responses were analysed for correlations in order to develop standardized tools and guidelines that could improve our understanding of the short-term and long-term impact of contaminants on physiological parameters.

Transchem project - Part II: Transgenerational effects of long-term exposure to pendimethalin at environmental concentrations on the early development and viral pathogen susceptibility of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

In the Transchem project, rainbow trout genitors were exposed to environmental concentrations of pendimethalin over a period of 18 months and two new first generations of offspring, F1_2013 and F1_2014, were obtained. We investigated the impact of direct chemical exposure on juveniles as well as the potential cumulative transgenerational and direct effects on the larval development and on the pathogen susceptibility of offspring. Depending on the chemical treatment or not of the adults, their offspring were distributed in the tanks of our experimental system, in two batches i.e. juveniles from the control genitors (G-) and others from the contaminated ones (G+), and then, half of the tanks were exposed daily to pendimethalin (Off+) while the others were used as controls (Off-). Viral challenges were performed on the offspring, before and after three months of direct chemical exposure, with strains of infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV), viral haemorrhagic septicemia virus (VHSV) and sleeping disease alphavirus (SDV). Direct and transgenerational macroscopic effects were observed on offspring, with a percentage of abnormalities in offspring derived from the genitors exposed to pendimethalin (G+) significantly higher compared to those from the genitors from non-exposed group (G-). Before the direct chemical exposure, similar kinetics of mortality was observed between the offspring from the contaminated or control genitors after VHSV infection. With IHNV, the G+ group died in a slightly larger proportion compared to the G- group and seroconversion was greater for the G- group. For the SDV challenge, the mortality was delayed for the G+ offspring compared to the G- and seroconversion reached 65% in the G+ group compared to 45% in the G-, with similar antibody titres. After three months of direct chemical exposure, kinetics of mortality induced by IHNV infection were similar for all groups studied. Infection with SDV resulted in a cumulative mortality of 40% for the G- groups (Off- and Off+), significantly higher than those observed from the contaminated genitors G+. Proportion of seropositivity for SDV varied from 24 to 47% depending on the group, with very low quantities of secreted antibodies. Lastly, the direct exposure of offspring could impact the capacity of fish to adapt their haematological parameters to environmental and physiological changes, and underlines the potential toxic effects on the next generations.

Transchem project - Part I: Impact of long-term exposure to pendimethalin on the health status of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss L.) genitors

Pendimethalin is a herbicide active substance commonly used in terrestrial agricultural systems and is thus detected at high concentrations in the surface water of several European countries. Previous studies reported several histopathological changes, enzymatic antioxidant modulation and immunity disturbance in fish exposed to this pesticide. The objective of this work was to investigate the direct effects of long-term exposure to environmental concentrations of pendimethalin over a period of 18 months in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) genitors. To do so, an experimental system consisting of eight similar 400 L tanks with a flow-through of fresh river water was used to perform daily chemical contamination. Fish were exposed to 850 ng/L for one hour and the pendimethalin concentration was then gradually diluted during the day to maintain optimal conditions for the fish throughout the experiment and to achieve a mean theoretical exposure level of around 100 ng L^-1 per day. Every November, males and females were stripped to collect eggs and sperm and two new first generations of offspring were obtained. Kinetic sampling revealed differences in immune system parameters and antioxidative defences in the contaminated trout compared to the controls, due to pesticide exposure combined with seasonal changes related to gamete maturation. Moreover, reproductive capacity was significantly affected by exposure to the herbicide; a time lag of more than five weeks was observed for egg maturation in contaminated females and high bioconcentrations of pendimethalin were measured in eggs and sperm. Chemical transfer from genitors to offspring via gametes may affect embryo development and negatively impact the early stages of development.

Effects of oil spill response technologies on the physiological performance of the Arctic copepod Calanus glacialis

A mesocosm study with oil in ice was performed in Van Mijenfjorden in Svalbard to compare effects of the oil spill responses (OSR) in situ burning, chemical dispersion and natural attenuation on the physiological performance of the Arctic copepod Calanus glacialis. Seawater collected from the mesocosms in winter and spring was used in laboratory incubation experiments, where effects on fecal pellet production, egg production and hatching success were investigated over a period of 14 days. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) seawater concentrations were lowest in winter. Brine channel formation in spring resulted in an 18 times increase in PAH concentration in the chemical dispersion treatment (1.67 μg L^-1), and a 3 fold increase in the natural attenuation (0.36 μg L^-1) and in situ burning (0.04 μg L^-1) treatments. The physiological performance of female C. glacialis was unaffected by the PAH seawater concentrations. However, a higher mortality and deformity of nauplii was observed in the chemical dispersion treatment, highlighting the importance of considering secondary effects on next generation in future environmental risk assessment of OSR. This study shows that during the ice-covered period, chemical dispersion of oil spills leads to higher PAH exposure than natural attenuation and in situ burning, with potential consequences for recruitment of Arctic copepods.

Significance of metallothioneins in differential cadmium accumulation kinetics between two marine fish species

Impacted marine environments lead to metal accumulation in edible marine fish, ultimately impairing human health. Nevertheless, metal accumulation is highly variable among marine fish species. In addition to ecological features, differences in bioaccumulation can be attributed to species-related physiological processes, which were investigated in two marine fish present in the Canary Current Large Marine Ecosystem (CCLME), where natural and anthropogenic metal exposure occurs. The European sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax and Senegalese sole Solea senegalensis were exposed for two months to two environmentally realistic dietary cadmium (Cd) doses before a depuration period. Organotropism (i.e., Cd repartition between organs) was studied in two storage compartments (the liver and muscle) and in an excretion vector (bile). To better understand the importance of physiological factors, the significance of hepatic metallothionein (MT) concentrations in accumulation and elimination kinetics in the two species was explored. Accumulation was faster in the sea bass muscle and liver, as inferred by earlier Cd increase and a higher accumulation rate. The elimination efficiency was also higher in the sea bass liver compared to sole, as highlighted by greater biliary excretion. In the liver, no induction of MT synthesis was attributed to metal exposure, challenging the relevance of using MT concentration as a biomarker of metal contamination. However, the basal MT pools were always greater in the liver of sea bass than in sole. This species-specific characteristic might have enhanced Cd biliary elimination and relocation to other organs such as muscle through the formation of more Cd/MT complexes. Thus, MT basal concentrations seem to play a key role in the variability observed in terms of metal concentrations in marine fish species.

Avoidance threshold to oil water-soluble fraction by a juvenile marine teleost fish

When oil spills occur, behavior is the first line of defense for a fish to avoid being contaminated. We determined the avoidance threshold of the European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) to the water-soluble fraction (WSF) of oil using a dual-flow choice box. The results showed that a plume of 20%-diluted WSF (total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon [PAH] concentration: 8.54 μg L^-1 ) triggered a significant avoidance response that was detected within 7.5 min of introducing WSF-contaminated water into the experimental setup. However, the ecological relevance of seabass capacity to detect and avoid WSF remains to be established. In the short term, such a response is indeed liable to reduce seabass contact time with oil-contaminated water and thus preserve their functional integrity. In the long term, however, avoidance may contribute to the displacement of a population into a possibly less auspicious environment, with consequences very similar to those of contaminant exposure, that is, disturbed population dynamics and demography. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:854-859. © 2017 SETAC.

Evaluation of the ability of calcite, bentonite and barite to enhance oil dispersion under arctic conditions

A test program was conducted at laboratory and pilot scale to assess the ability of clays used in drilling mud (calcite, bentonite and barite) to create oil-mineral aggregates and disperse crude oil under arctic conditions. Laboratory tests were performed in order to determine the most efficient conditions (type of clay, MOR (Mineral/Oil Ratio), mixing energy) for OMA (Oil Mineral Aggregate) formation. The dispersion rates of four crude oils were assessed at two salinities. Dispersion was characterized in terms of oil concentration in the water column and median OMA size. Calcite appeared to be the best candidate at a MOR of 2:5. High mixing energy was required to initiate OMA formation and low energy was then necessary to prevent the OMAs from resurfacing. Oil dispersion using Corexit 9500 was compared with oil dispersion using mineral fines.

Exposure of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) to chemically dispersed oil has a chronic residual effect on hypoxia tolerance but not aerobic scope

We tested the hypothesis that the chronic residual effects of an acute exposure of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) to chemically dispersed crude oil is manifest in indices of hypoxic performance rather than aerobic performance. Sea bass were pre-screened with a hypoxia challenge test to establish their incipient lethal oxygen saturation (ILOS), but on discovering a wide breadth for individual ILOS values (2.6-11.0% O₂ saturation), fish were subsequently subdivided into either hypoxia sensitive (HS) or hypoxia tolerant (HT) phenotypes, traits that were shown to be experimentally repeatable. The HT phenotype had a lower ILOS and critical oxygen saturation (O_2crit) compared with the HS phenotype and switched to glycolytic metabolism at a lower dissolved oxygen, even though both phenotypes accumulated lactate and glucose to the same plasma concentrations at ILOS. As initially hypothesized, and regardless of the phenotype considered, we found no residual effect of oil on any of the indices of aerobic performance. Contrary to our hypothesis, however, oil exposure had no residual effect on any of the indices of hypoxic performance in the HS phenotype. In the HT phenotype, on the other hand, oil exposure had residual effects as illustrated by the impaired repeatability of hypoxia tolerance and also by the 24% increase in O_2crit, the 40% increase in scope for oxygen deficit, the 17% increase in factorial scope for oxygen deficit and the 57% increase in accumulated oxygen deficit. Thus, sea bass with a HT phenotype remained chronically impaired for a minimum of 167days following an acute 24-h oil exposure while the HS phenotypes did not. We reasoned that impaired oxygen extraction at gill due to oil exposure activates glycolytic metabolism at a higher dissolved oxygen, conferring on the HT phenotype an inferior hypoxia resistance that might eventually compromise their ability to survive hypoxic episodes.

Influence of crude oil exposure on cardiac function and thermal tolerance of juvenile rainbow trout and European sea bass

Oil spills pose a threat to aquatic organisms. However, the physiological effects of crude oil on cardiac function and on thermal tolerance of juvenile fish are still poorly understood. Consequently, in this paper, we will present results of two separate experiments where we exposed juvenile rainbow trout and European sea bass to crude oil and made cardiac thermal tolerances and maximum heart rate (f _Hmax) measurements after 1 week (rainbow trout) and 6-month recovery (sea bass). In both species, the f _Hmax was lower in crude oil-exposed fish than in the control ones at temperatures below the optimum but this difference disappeared at higher temperatures. More importantly, the oil-exposed fish had significantly higher Arrhenius break point temperature for f _Hmax, which gave an estimate for optimum temperature, than the control fish in both species even though the exposure conditions and recovery times differed between species. The results indicated that exposure of juvenile fish to crude oil did not have a significant negative impact upon their cardiac performance in high temperatures and upper thermal tolerance increased when the fish were tested 1 week or 6 months after the exposure. Our findings suggest that the cardiac function and thermal tolerance of juvenile fish are relatively resistant to a crude oil exposure.

Dispersed oil decreases the ability of a model fish (Dicentrarchus labrax) to cope with hydrostatic pressure

Data on the biological impact of oil dispersion in deep-sea environment are scarce. Hence, the aim of this study was to evaluate the potential interest of a pressure challenge as a new experimental approach for the assessment of consequences of chemically dispersed oil, followed by a high hydrostatic pressure challenge. This work was conducted on a model fish: juvenile Dicentrarchus labrax. Seabass were exposed for 48 h to dispersant alone (nominal concentration (NC) = 4 mg L^-1), mechanically dispersed oil (NC = 80 mg L^-1), two chemically dispersed types of oil (NC = 50 and 80 mg L^-1 with a dispersant/oil ratio of 1/20), or kept in clean seawater. Fish were then exposed for 30 min at a simulated depth of 1350 m, corresponding to pressure of 136 absolute atmospheres (ATA). The probability of fish exhibiting normal activity after the pressure challenge significantly increased from 0.40 to 0.55 when they were exposed to the dispersant but decreased to 0.26 and 0.11 in the case of chemical dispersion of oil (at 50 and 80 mg L^-1, respectively). The chemical dispersion at 80 mg L^-1 also induced an increase in probability of death after the pressure challenge (from 0.08 to 0.26). This study clearly demonstrates the ability of a pressure challenge test to give evidence of the effects of a contaminant on the capacity of fish to face hydrostatic pressure. It opens new perspectives on the analysis of the biological impact of chemical dispersion of oil at depth, especially on marine species performing vertical migrations.

Dry bulk cargo shipping - An overlooked threat to the marine environment?

Approximately 9.5billiontonnes of goods is transported over the world oceans annually with dry bulk representing the largest cargo group. This paper aims to analyse whether the transport and associated inputs of dry bulks into the sea create a risk for the marine environment. For this purpose, we analyse the international regulatory background concerning environmental protection (MARPOL), estimate quantities and identify inputs of such cargoes into the oceans (accidental and operational), and use available information for hazard assessment. Annually, more than 2.15milliontonnes of dry bulk cargoes are likely to enter the oceans, of which 100,000tonnes are potentially harmful to the marine environment according to the definition included in draft maritime regulation. The assessment of the threat to the marine environment is hampered by a lack of available information on chemical composition, bioavailability and toxicity. Perspectives for amendments of the unsatisfying pollution prevention regulations are discussed.

Short-Term and Long-Term Biological Effects of Chronic Chemical Contamination on Natural Populations of a Marine Bivalve

Understanding the effects of chronic chemical contamination on natural populations of marine organisms is complex due to the combined effects of different types of pollutants and environmental parameters that can modulate the physiological responses to stress. Here, we present the effects of a chronic contamination in a marine bivalve by combining multiple approaches that provide information on individual and population health. We sampled variegated scallops (Mimachlamys varia) at sites characterized by different contaminants and contamination levels to study the short and long-term (intergenerational) responses of this species to physiological stress. We used biomarkers (SOD, MDA, GST, laccase, citrate synthase and phosphatases) as indicators of oxidative stress, immune system alteration, mitochondrial respiration and general metabolism, and measured population genetic diversity at each site. In parallel, concentration of 14 trace metals and 45 organic contaminants (PAHs, PCBs, pesticides) in tissues were measured. Scallops were collected outside and during their reproductive season to investigate temporal variability in contaminant and biomarker levels. Our analyses revealed that the levels of two biomarkers (Laccase-type phenoloxidase and malondialdehyde) were significantly correlated with Cd concentration. Additionally, we observed significant seasonal differences for four of the five biomarkers, which is likely due to the scallop reproductive status at time of sampling. As a source of concern, a location that was identified as a reference site on the basis of inorganic contaminant levels presented the same level of some persistent organic pollutants (DDT and its metabolites) than more impacted sites. Finally, potential long-term effects of heavy metal contamination were observed for variegated scallops as genetic diversity was depressed in the most polluted sites.

Innate immunity and antioxidant systems in different tissues of sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) exposed to crude oil dispersed mechanically or chemically with Corexit 9500

The aim of the study was to evaluate effects of chemically dispersed oil by the dispersant Corexit 9500 on innate immunity and redox defenses in a marine model fish. Sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) were exposed 48h to four experimental conditions: a control group (C), a group only exposed to the dispersant (D; 3.6mg/L) and two groups exposed to 80mg/L oil mechanically or chemically dispersed (MD; CD). Alternative pathway of complement activity and lysozyme concentration was measured in plasma in order to evaluate the general fish health status. Total glutathione, glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were analyzed in gills, liver, brain, intestine and muscle. The chemical dispersion induced a significant reduction of lysozyme concentration when compared to the controls, and the hemolytic activity of the alternative complement pathway was increased in mechanical and chemical dispersion. The analysis of SOD, GPX and total glutathione showed that antioxidant defenses were activated in liver and reduced in intestine and brain. Dispersant was also responsible for an SOD activity inhibition in these two last tissues, demonstrating a direct effect of this dispersant on reactive oxygen species homeostasis that can be interpreted as a signal of tissue toxicity. This result should raise concern about the use of dispersants and show that they can lead to adverse effects on marine species.

Growth and immune system performance to assess the effect of dispersed oil on juvenile sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)

The potential impact of chemically and mechanically dispersed oil was assessed in a model fish of European coastal waters, the sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax. Juvenile sea bass were exposed for 48h to dispersed oil (mechanically and chemically) or dispersants alone. The impact of these exposure conditions was assessed using growth and immunity. The increase observed in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon metabolites in bile indicated oil contamination in the fish exposed to chemical and mechanical dispersion of oil without any significant difference between these two groups. After 28 days of exposure, no significant differences were observed in specific growth rate,apparent food conversion efficiency and daily feeding). Following the oil exposure, fish immunity was assessed by a challenge with Viral Nervous Necrosis Virus (VNNV). Fish mortality was observed over a 42 day period. After 12 days post-infection, cumulative mortality was significantly different between the control group (16% p≤0.05) and the group exposed to chemical dispersion of oil (30% p≤0.05). However, at the end of the experiment, no significant difference was recorded in cumulative mortality or in VNNV antibodies secreted in fish in responses to the treatments. These data suggested that in our experimental condition, following the oil exposure, sea bass growth was not affected whereas an impact on immunity was observed during the first days. However, this effect on the immune system did not persist over time.

Effect of dispersed crude oil on cardiac function in seabass Dicentrarchus labrax

In this study, the impact of dispersed oil was assessed in Dicentrarchus labrax, a fish frequently used as an oil contamination indicator species. Fish were exposed for 48h to (mechanically and chemically) dispersed oil and dispersant alone. The impact of these exposure conditions was assessed on cardiac function by measuring (i) the contraction strength, the contraction and the relaxation speeds (ii) the cardiac energy metabolism using respirometry on permeabilized cardiac fibers. Compared to control, the increase of polycyclic aromatic metabolites observed in the bile indicated oil contamination in our fish. Following 48h of oil exposure at realistic oil concentrations, alterations of cardiac performances were observed. A decrease in contraction strength, contraction and relaxation speeds was observed in the presence of oil without effect of dispersant on these three parameters. Looking at cardiac energy metabolism, dispersant alone decreases all the activity of the respiratory chain and increases the proton leak. From these results, it appears that the observed decrease in cardiac performance in fish exposed to oil was not linked to a decrease in energy availability.

Acute toxicity of chemically and mechanically dispersed crude oil to juvenile sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax): Absence of synergistic effects between oil and dispersants

The goal of the present experiment was to assess the relative acute toxicities of mechanically and chemically dispersed oil (crude Arabian Light) in controlled conditions. Juvenile sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) were exposed to 4 commercial formulations of dispersants (Corexit EC9500A, Dasic Slickgone NS, Finasol OSR 52, Inipol IP 90), to mechanically dispersed oil, and to the corresponding chemical dispersions. Acute toxicity was evaluated at 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, and 96 h through the determination of 10%, 50%, and 90% lethal concentrations calculated from measured total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) concentrations; Kaplan-Meyer mortality analyses were based on nominal concentrations. Animals were exposed to the dissolved fraction of the oil and to the oil droplets (ranging from 14.0 μm to 42.3 μm for the chemical dispersions). Kaplan-Meyer analyses demonstrated an increased mortality in the case of chemical dispersions. This difference can be attributed mainly to differences in TPH, because the chemical lethal concentrations were not reduced compared with mechanical lethal concentrations (except after 24 h of exposure). The ratios of lethal concentrations of mechanical dispersions to the different chemical dispersions were calculated to allow direct comparisons of the relative toxicities of the dispersions. The results ranged from 0.27 to 3.59, with a mean ratio close to 1 (0.92). These results demonstrate an absence of synergistic effect between oil and chemical dispersants in an operational context.

Impact of dispersed fuel oil on cardiac mitochondrial function in polar cod Boreogadus saida

In this study, impact of dispersed oil on cardiac mitochondrial function was assessed in a key species of Arctic marine ecosystem, the polar cod Boreogadus saida. Mature polar cod were exposed during 48 h to dispersed oil (mechanically and chemically) and dispersants alone. The increase observed in ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase activity and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon metabolites in bile indicated no difference in contamination level between fish exposed to chemical or mechanical dispersion of oil. Oil induced alterations of O2 consumption of permeabilised cardiac fibres showing inhibitions of complexes I and IV of the respiratory chain. Oil did not induce any modification of mitochondrial proton leak. Dispersants did not induce alteration of mitochondrial activity and did not increase oil toxicity. These data suggest that oil exposure may limit the fitness of polar cod and consequently could lead to major disruption in the energy flow of polar ecosystem.

EROD activity and antioxidant defenses of sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) after an in vivo chronic hydrocarbon pollution followed by a post-exposure period

Chronic concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have been commonly detected in international estuaries ecosystems. Reliable indicators still need to be found in order to properly assess the impact of PAHs in fish. After an in vivo chronic exposure to hydrocarbons, the enzymatic activity of 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) and the antioxidant defense system were assessed in sea bass, Dicentrarchus labrax. A total of 45 fish were exposed to the water-soluble fraction of Arabian crude oil, similar to a complex pollution by hydrocarbons chronically observed in situ, while 45 other control fish sustained the same experimental conditions in clean seawater. Fish samples were made after a 21-day exposure period and after a 15-day recovery period in clean fresh water. Throughout the experiment, liver EROD activity was significantly higher in contaminated fish than in control fish. In addition, nonenzymatic (total glutathione) and enzymatic (GPx, SOD, and CAT) antioxidant defense parameters measured in liver were not significantly different in fish. Furthermore, in gills, glutathione content had significantly increased while SOD activity had significantly decreased in contaminated fish compared to controls. On the other hand, CAT and GPx activities were not affected. Chronic exposure to PAHs disturbing the first step (SOD) and inhibiting the second step (GPx and CAT) could induce oxidative stress in tissues by the formation of oxygen radicals. After the postexposure period, there was no significant difference between control and contaminated fish in any of the antioxidant defense parameters measured in gills, attesting to the reversibility of the effects.

DISCOBIOL: Assessment of the Impact of Dispersant Use for Oil Spill Response in Coastal or Estuarine Areas

Dispersants are known to be an appropriate solution for offshore spill response when sea conditions provide enough energy to disperse and then dilute oil into surface waters. In shallow coastal areas, the use of dispersant is restricted due to the potential that the dispersed oil might come into contact with sensitive resources before dilution can take place. However, after assessing the advantages and potential risks of dispersing oil in coastal areas, it may emerge after careful consideration that and in some cases the use of dispersants could provide a net environmental benefit.

The DISCOBIOL research program aimed to provide practical recommendations on dispersant use in coastal and estuarine areas by acquiring relevant (in terms of likely dispersed oil concentrations) and robust experimental information on the impact of mechanically and chemically dispersed oil on living resources. The main conclusion from these experiments was that there is no significant difference between the impacts from oil with and without dispersant use in terms of acute toxicity. However there are some observable sub-lethal effects from exposure to dispersed oil which do not persist more than a few weeks. In a natural environment, on a medium or long timescale, biota which have been exposed to oil (with and without dispersant) do exhibit some symptoms which could affect their survival rate in the field even though they do not lead to acute toxicity effects. However the DISCOBIOL project demonstrated that effects of dispersed oil were less severe than previously recorded for near shore environments.

In terms of applying these results to decision making at an oil spill, it highlights the need in coastal areas prior to the use of dispersant to complete a “Net Environmental Benefit Analysis” (NEBA) to determine whether the use of dispersant is expected to minimize the overall damage resulting from the pollution. As it is difficult to cover the number of possible spill scenarios at the contingency planning stage, instead of completing a NEBA, many countries define geographical limits where dispersion can be undertaken, based on the water depth and the distance to the shore as well as the presence of sensitive resources. The DISCOBIOL study confirmed the appropriateness of these pre-defined limits for France's coastal waters but demonstrated that they could be less restrictive since the exposure to dispersed oil could be at least five times higher than was previously considered the safe limit.

Effects of in vivo chronic exposure to pendimethalin on EROD activity and antioxidant defenses in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

Pendimethalin, an herbicide active substance frequently used in terrestrial systems, has detected in European aquatic ecosystems. Reliable indicators still need to be found in order to properly assess the impact of pesticides in fish. After an in vivo chronic exposure to pendimethalin, the detoxification process and the antioxidant defense system were assessed in 120 adult rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. Four nominal exposure conditions were tested: control (C), 500 ng L(-1) (P500), 800 ng L(-1) (P800) and the commercial formulation Prowl(®) at 500 ng L(-1) (Pw500). Fish samples were made after a 28 day exposure period (D28) and after a fifteen day recovery period in clean fresh water (D43). At D28, ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity was not activated in liver in spite of the pendimethalin uptake in fish. At D43, EROD activity in fish exposed to the commercial product was lower than in control fish, which may be explained by the high presence of herbicide in fish (613±163 ng g bile(-1)). Furthermore, antioxidant defense responses were set up by trout in gills and liver following chronic exposure to 800 ng L(-1) of pendimethalin concentration. While the glutathione content (GSH) decreased in gills, it increased in liver associated with higher activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). These disturbances could lead to reactive oxygen species production and oxidative stress in the vital organs in fish. After fifteen days in clean water, while the SOD activity was restored, the GSH content and GPx activity were still significantly disturbed in fish exposed to pendimethalin in comparison with control. These significant differences between treatments in antioxidant defenses parameters measured, attesting to the irreversibility of the effects.

Effects of oil exposure and dispersant use upon environmental adaptation performance and fitness in the European sea bass, Dicentrarchus labrax

The worldwide increasing recourse to chemical dispersants to deal with oil spills in marine coastal ecosystems is a controversial issue. Yet, there exists no adequate methodology that can provide reliable predictions of how oil and dispersant-treated oil can affect relevant organism or population-level performance. The primary objective of the present study was to examine and compare the effects of exposure to untreated oil (weathered Arabian light crude oil), chemically dispersed oil (Finasol, TOTAL-Fluides) or dispersant alone, upon the ability of fish for environmental adaptation. To reach that goal, we implemented high-throughput, non-lethal challenge tests to estimate individual hypoxia and heat tolerance as surrogate measures of their capacity to face natural contingencies. Experimental populations were then transferred into semi-natural tidal ponds and correlates of individuals' fitness (growth and survival) were monitored over a period of 6 months. In accordance with our stated objectives, the contamination conditions tested corresponded to those observed under an oil slick drifting in shallow waters. Our results revealed that the response of control fish to both challenges was variable among individuals and temporally stable (repeatable) over a 2-month period. Exposure to chemical dispersant did not affect the repeatability of fish performance. However, exposure to oil or to a mixture of oil plus dispersant affected the repeatability of individuals' responses to the experimental challenge tests. At population level, no difference between contamination treatments was observed in the distribution of individual responses to the hypoxia and temperature challenge tests. Moreover, no correlation between hypoxia tolerance and heat tolerance was noticed. During the field experiment, hypoxia tolerance and heat tolerance were found to be determinants of survivorship. Moreover, experimental groups exposed to oil or to dispersant-treated oil displayed significantly lower survival than control or dispersant-exposed groups. Finally, from the four experimental populations tested, the one exposed to chemically dispersed oil presented the lowest growth rate.

Toxicological effects of crude oil and oil dispersant: biomarkers in the heart of the juvenile golden grey mullet (Liza aurata)

Dispersant use is a controversial oil spill response technique in coastal areas. Using an experimental approach, this study evaluated the toxicity of dispersant use upon juveniles of golden grey mullet (Liza aurata). Fish were exposed for 48 h to either dispersant only, chemically dispersed oil, mechanically dispersed oil, the water soluble fraction of oil or to control conditions. Following exposure and a depuration period, biomarkers were assessed in fish hearts, namely the total glutathione content and the activity of four enzymes (glutathione S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxides). Comparing biomarker responses between the different treatments, this study revealed that 48 h exposure to dispersed oil (whether mechanically or chemically dispersed) resulted in a toxicity that was still detectable after a 14 days depuration period. Comparing biomarkers responses after an exposure to chemically and mechanically dispersed oil, this study suggests that chemical dispersion of the oil slick would not be more toxic than its natural dispersion under certain turbulent meteorological conditions (e.g. waves). Furthermore, the results indicated that the heart could be a target organ of interest in further studies investigating the toxicity of hydrocarbons. This study, which has been integrated into the DISCOBIOL project (Dispersant et techniques de lutte en milieu côtier: effets biologiques et apport à la réglementation), presents information of interest when attempting to provide a framework for dispersant applications in coastal areas.

Responses of conventional and molecular biomarkers in turbot Scophthalmus maximus exposed to heavy fuel oil no. 6 and styrene

Several accidental spills in European coastal areas have resulted in the release of different toxic compounds into the marine environment, such as heavy fuel oil type no. 6 in the "Erika" and "Prestige" oil spills and the highly toxic styrene after the loss of the "Ievoli Sun". There is a clear need to develop tools that might allow assessing the biological impact of these accidental spills on aquatic organisms. The aim of the present study was to determine the short-term effects and recovery after exposure of juvenile fish (Scophthalmus maximus) to heavy fuel oil no. 6 and styrene by using a battery of molecular, cell and tissue level biomarkers. Turbots were exposed to styrene for 7 days and to the diluted soluble fraction of the oil (10%) for 14 days, and then allowed to recover in clean seawater for the same time periods. cyp1a1 transcript was overexpressed in turbots after 3 and 14 days of exposure to heavy fuel oil, whereas ahr transcription was not modulated after heavy fuel oil and styrene exposure. pparα transcription level was significantly up-regulated after 3 days of treatment with styrene. Liver activity of peroxisomal acyl-CoA oxidase (AOX) was significantly induced after 14 days of oil exposure, but it was not affected by styrene. Hepatocyte lysosomal membrane stability (LMS) was significantly reduced after exposure to both treatments, indicating that the tested compounds significantly impaired fish health. Both AOX and LMS values returned to control levels after the recovery period. No differences in gamete development were observed between fuel- or styrene- exposed fish and control fish, and vitellogenin plasma levels were low, suggesting no xenoestrogenic effects of fuel oil or styrene. While styrene did not cause any increase in the prevalence of liver histopathological alterations, prevalence of extensive cell vacuolization increased after exposure to heavy fuel oil for 14 days. In conclusion, the suite of selected biomarkers proved to be useful to determine the early impact of and recovery from exposure to tested compounds in turbot.

Offshore experiments on styrene spillage in marine waters for risk assessment

Within the context of risk evaluation of chemical spillages into the marine environment, this paper reports on an offshore experiment to study the behaviour of styrene spilled into sea under natural conditions and discusses theoretical approaches. Floating structures were used to enclose the spillage and the gaseous cloud formation, and dissolution processes were in situ monitored. The identification of spill risks for man and marine environment through GESAMP's hazard profile is described for styrene: Styrene is rated as a chemical with a significant health hazard that will float but also evaporate. However, monitoring of the water column in the experiments showed that the concentration of styrene in water during the first hour represents 50% of the product spilled. For the potentially exposed public, the GESAMP hazard rating recommends the closure of beaches and evacuation. The risk assessment developed from experimental data confirms this safety advice.

Effects of in vivo chronic exposure to pendimethalin/Prowl 400® on sanitary status and the immune system in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

The in vivo effects of the herbicide active substance (AS) pendimethalin (alone and with Prowl 400® adjuvant) were evaluated on sanitary status i.e. the health status with regard to chemical pollution and on the physiological state via the immune system in rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. Four nominal exposure conditions were tested: i) control (C), ii) AS at 500 ng L(-1) (P500), iii) AS at 800 ng L(-1) (P800) and iv) Prowl 400® at 500 ng L(-1) (Pw). After a 28 day exposure period (D28), 10 fish were sampled for each condition and 10 other after a 15 day recovery period in clean fresh water (D43). Pendimethalin concentrations in the exposure water and muscles were followed. White blood cell counts, differential leucocyte counts, cell mortality and phagocytosis activity were measured. Haemolytic alternative complement activity, lysozyme concentration and stress parameters were analyzed. The resulting concentration of pendimethalin in the exposure water was lower than the expected concentration. At D28, the concentration quantified in the contaminated fish was negligible in comparison with the Reference Dose for Oral Exposure estimated by US-EPA's Integrated Risk Information System. Leucopenia was noted in all contaminated fish. A decrease in phagocytosis activity and ACH(50) was also observed in contaminated fish by P800 and Pw. Disturbed lysozyme activity was noted only in fish exposed to Pw. Furthermore, during exposure to a similar concentration of pendimethalin, the commercial product seemed to be more immunotoxic than the AS alone. Finally, at D43, the effects proved reversible for sanitary status while immunity was still disturbed in contaminated fish by P800 and Pw.

Effect of chronic exposure to pendimethalin on the susceptibility of rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss L., to viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus (VHSV)

In this study, the in vivo effects of chronic pollution by the active substance (AS) pendimethalin, a dinitroaniline herbicide, on the susceptibility of rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss L., to an experimental challenge with viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus (VHSV) were assessed. After four weeks of exposure to fresh water (C group) or 500 ng L(-1) of AS (P500 group), the fish were challenged by immersion in water containing 10(4) TCID(50) mL(-1) of VHSV. While exposure to pendimethalin was maintained throughout the experiment, mortalities were recorded during the 40 days post-infection (dpi) and organs were collected from dead fish for virological examination. At the end of the experiment, anti-VHSV antibodies and the classical pathway of complement activity were assessed in trout plasma. Exposure to pendimethalin significantly affected the distribution of cumulative mortality accelerating death in fish infected by VHSV. Pendimethalin appeared to decrease the Mean Time to Death (MTD) after virus treatment from 14.9 days (C-VHSV) to 10.2 days (P500-VHSV). Nevertheless, by the end of the experiment, differences in cumulative mortality were no longer observed between the two groups, which had reached the same stage (50 percent). Furthermore, a higher concentration of the virus was recovered from the pools of organs from the P500-VHSV group than the C-VHSV group. Moreover, at 40 dpi, although no significant difference was observed in the immune response between the two groups, more fish in the P500-VHSV group had set up an immune response by secreting antibodies than in the control viral group (C-VSHV).

Effect of dispersed crude oil exposure upon the aerobic metabolic scope in juvenile golden grey mullet (Liza aurata)

This study evaluated the toxicity of dispersant application which is, in nearshore area, a controversial response technique to oil spill. Through an experimental approach with juveniles of Liza aurata, the toxicity of five exposure conditions was evaluated: (i) a chemically dispersed oil simulating dispersant application; (ii) a single dispersant as an internal control of chemically dispersed oil; (iii) a mechanically dispersed oil simulating natural dispersion of oil; (iv) a water soluble fraction of oil simulating an undispersed and untreated oil slick and (v) uncontaminated seawater as a control exposure condition. The relative concentration of PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) biliary metabolites showed that the incorporation of these toxic compounds was increased if the oil was dispersed, whether mechanically or chemically. However, toxicity was not observed at the organism level since the aerobic metabolic scope and the critical swimming speed of exposed fish were not impaired.

Bioconcentration and immunotoxicity of an experimental oil spill in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax L.)

The effects of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) resulting from a water soluble fraction (WSF) of an Arabian crude oil were tested in vivo on the bioconcentration in muscles and on immune parameters in sea bass, Dicentrarchus labrax. After 15 days of acclimation, fish were acutely exposed (48 h) to the WSF of 25 g of oil, and then returned to clean sea water for a 15 day recovery period. PAH concentration in the WSF at the beginning of the exposure was estimated to 773±187 ng L⁻¹ similar to that observed in the marine environment after an oil spill. The WSF in the experimental system was composed by lightest PAH compounds and did not remain constant during the two days of exposure. Just after exposure to the WSF, a total mean concentration of 148±46 μg kg⁻¹ of PAHs was found in contaminated fish muscle, composed of parent and alkylated naphthalene compounds (86.5%), benzo[a]pyrene (10.1%) and benzo[b+k]fluoranthene (3.4%). In addition, a decrease of leucocytes counts due to a lymphopenia and granulopenia and an increase of the haemolytic activity of the alternative pathway (ACH₅₀) were noted. After a 15 day recovery period, haematocrit was decreased whereas effects on the blood granulocytes of fish seemed to be reversible, contrary to the specific immune system and quality of flesh. In fact, contaminated fish had still less lymphocyte cells compared to controls fish and their flesh were still contaminated by naphthalene and benzo[a]pyrene creating a risk for human consumers.

Effect of an experimental oil spill on vertebral bone tissue quality in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax L.)

In order to identify biomarkers of oil pollution in fish we tested the effects of an experimental Light Cycle Oil (LCO) exposure on vertebral bone of sea bass, Dicentrarchus labrax L. A total of 60 adult fish were acclimated for fifteen days, then twenty were collected as controls (Day 0) while 40 were exposed to a soluble fraction of LCO (1136 ng L(-1) of ten Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons, PAHs) for seven days. Twenty of them were sampled at the end of the exposure period and the twenty last after a recovery period of fourteen days in clean seawater. Vertebral abnormalities were counted and bone mineralization, total bone area and bone density profiles were established for several post-cranial and caudal vertebrae. In sea bass, seven days of LCO exposure did not affect the frequency and severity of the vertebral abnormalities. No significant differences were observed in bone density and bone repartition (parameters of bone area profiles) between unexposed (Day 0), exposed (D7) and decontaminated (D21) fish. In contrast, bone mineralization of the vertebrae decreased in contaminated sea bass, but in a reversible way, which confirms a previous study in trout showing that this parameter is an early stress indicator. Our results suggest that vertebral bone mineralization could be used as a biomarker of PAH pollution in sea bass. It would be interesting to check this new biomarker in other teleost species exposed to various xenobiotics.